If you’re searching for a foolproof, crowd-pleasing dessert that sings with sweet, buttery flavor and irresistible crunch, Pecan Dump Cake is about to become your new obsession. Imagine bubbling fruit filling, a golden cake layer, and a generous blanket of toasty pecans—all magically assembled in one pan with barely any fuss. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply craving something special on a weeknight, this classic treat is pure comfort with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Pecan Dump Cake is its simplicity—just a handful of pantry staples come together for a dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Each ingredient plays an important role, from the juicy base to the nutty topping and buttery finish.
- Peach or apple pie filling (1 can, 21 ounces): This provides a juicy, fruity foundation and a touch of natural sweetness.
- Yellow cake mix (1 box, 15.25 ounces): The shortcut to a tender, golden cake layer—no mixing or measuring flour required!
- Chopped pecans (1 cup): These deliver an amazing crunch and nutty richness that makes the topping unforgettable.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Drizzled over the top, this creates irresistibly crisp, buttery pockets throughout the cake.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon, optional): A sprinkle of spice adds warmth and depth, especially lovely with apple filling.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Just a bit balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
How to Make Pecan Dump Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your Pecan Dump Cake releases effortlessly and bakes evenly, with golden, caramelized edges.
Step 2: Layer the Fruit Filling
Spread the entire can of peach or apple pie filling evenly in the bottom of your dish. This luscious layer becomes bubbling and jammy as it bakes, infusing every bite with juicy fruit flavor.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit filling. Don’t stir! Keeping the layers separate is the secret to achieving that classic, cobbler-like texture in Pecan Dump Cake.
Step 4: Sprinkle Spices and Salt (Optional)
If you’re using ground cinnamon and a pinch of salt, now’s the time to dust them over the cake mix. This step is optional but highly recommended for extra flavor dimension.
Step 5: Top with Pecans
Scatter the chopped pecans generously over the entire surface. They’ll toast up beautifully in the oven, adding crunch and a rich, nutty aroma that pairs perfectly with the sweet cake and fruit.
Step 6: Drizzle on the Butter
Pour the melted butter evenly over everything, making sure to moisten as much of the cake mix as possible. The butter is what transforms the dry mix into a golden, tender topping—don’t skimp!
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the top is deeply golden and the filling is bubbling at the edges. Let your Pecan Dump Cake cool slightly so it sets up and is easier to serve.
How to Serve Pecan Dump Cake
Garnishes
For a finishing flourish, top each warm serving with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a handful of toasted pecans adds an elegant touch and makes every bite even more special.
Side Dishes
Pecan Dump Cake is a showstopper on its own, but it pairs beautifully with fresh berries, a simple fruit salad, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. If you’re serving it as part of a larger dessert spread, it holds its own alongside pies, crisps, or creamy puddings.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking your Pecan Dump Cake in individual ramekins for a charming, single-serve presentation at dinner parties. Or, layer portions in mason jars with ice cream and extra pecans for a fun, portable treat at picnics and potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, cover your baking dish tightly with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your Pecan Dump Cake will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, simply portion the cake into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying again—the pecans retain their crunch surprisingly well!
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or pop the whole dish in a 300°F oven until heated through. Serving it warm revives the gooey filling and toasty pecan topping, making it taste freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional and delicious, you can swap in walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of nuts for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure to chop them so they toast evenly.
Is it possible to make Pecan Dump Cake gluten-free?
Yes! Just use your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix in place of the regular one. Double-check that your pie filling and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions.
Can I use a homemade fruit filling instead of canned?
Definitely. If you have fresh or frozen fruit on hand, simply cook it down with some sugar and a bit of cornstarch until thick and jammy, then use it in place of the canned filling for a more homemade touch.
Does Pecan Dump Cake need to be refrigerated?
While it’s fine to leave out for a few hours while serving, it’s best to refrigerate leftovers to keep them fresh. The cake will firm up slightly, but reheating brings back that gooey, just-baked texture.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, you can easily double all the ingredients and bake your Pecan Dump Cake in two separate 9×13-inch pans, or use a larger, deeper baking dish if you have one. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as a bigger dessert may take a bit longer to cook through.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried Pecan Dump Cake before, get ready for a new family favorite! It’s delightfully easy, endlessly customizable, and always a hit at any gathering. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again, sharing the sweet, nutty magic with everyone you love.
Print
Pecan Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pecan Dump Cake is a quick and easy dessert that combines the sweetness of fruit pie filling with a crunchy pecan topping and buttery cake mix. This delightful American classic requires minimal prep and baking time, making it perfect for busy days or impromptu gatherings. The golden, bubbly top contrasts beautifully with the soft, flavorful filling beneath, offering a comforting and satisfying treat.
Ingredients
Fruit Filling
- 1 can (21 ounces) peach or apple pie filling
Cake Mix Layer
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
Toppings
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Layer Pie Filling: Evenly spread the entire can of peach or apple pie filling in the bottom of the greased baking dish, forming a smooth base layer.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pie filling. Do not stir or mix; leave it as a layer on top of the filling.
- Season: If desired, sprinkle ground cinnamon and salt evenly over the cake mix layer to enhance the flavor complexity.
- Top with Pecans: Distribute the chopped pecans evenly over the surface of the cake mix, adding a crunchy texture.
- Drizzle Butter: Slowly drizzle the melted unsalted butter over the entire surface, making sure to moisten as much of the cake mix as possible to create a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly edges indicate the filling is hot and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the cake cool slightly before serving, allowing the flavors to settle.
Notes
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
- Experiment with different pie fillings like cherry or pineapple, or mix two types together for a unique flavor.
- For extra crunch and depth of flavor, toast the pecans before sprinkling over the cake.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
